I’m playing the Prince song in my head… but two-oo thousand nine doesn’t have the same ring to it. It’s hard to believe 10 years ago, we were anticipating the New Millenium. Here’s a photo of my then-fiance, now-hubby just after midnight. We were both working at the CBS station here in Charleston. He was running audio for the nightly newscast. We were “live” as the clock struck 12… in case Y2K caused lots of crazy commotion and mayhem.
I had already completed my assignment, which is why I was able to run into the control room and steal a kiss. My job was to cover the “threat to our power system” which involved me calling SCE & G and asking, “Hey, did we lose power?” To which the spokesperson replied, “No, we didn’t.”
I thought it was ridiculous everyone had to work that night. Actually, it turned out to be one my best New Year’s celebrations. The station’s General Manager let us turn the sales department into a nightclub. One of our editors, aka DJ Greg, was spinning records. Our party came complete with disco ball, booze and catered buffet. Later, a group of us grabbed the cooler marked “Stolen from WCSC-TV” and took it back to my apartment. My friend, Frank, played guitar and we laughed and talked until the Post and Courier hit my front door.
That’s how you party like it’s 1999.
Ten years and two kids later… tonight’s going to be a lot more lame tame.
Ten years ago, I had no idea I’d be in this place, traveling a different professional path. I made choices that sent me into uncharted territory… forcing me to consult my inner compass for direction. I learned it’s never too late to follow my heart and revise the script. Tonight… I don’t need to be out on the town… to see and be seen. I’m content, right here at home.
Oh… and in case you’re wondering… we returned the cooler.
So tell me, did you party like it was 1999? Will this News Years Eve be different? What has the past decade taught you?
Cheers! See you next year… love saying that.
I love this, a great reflection of how you have changed in 10 years. I have a picture in my mind of celebrating Y2K with my dad, brother & grandma. I was 14 & I thought it was lame that I wasn’t with friends, but looking back it was a good place to be.
In 10 years I have graduated college with a BA, ran two marathons & 2 half marathons, lived in another country (Australia if you’re wondering), traveled to 11 different countries, met my future-fiance, started one career, changed to another, moved to Charleston….it’s been a big decade!
I have very high hopes for 2010. A client today told me he was hoping for, “2010 to be a 10!” I concur.
And you know what? I may not have the family with a house & kids yet, but with where I am today I am also finding myself feeling “okay” with not doing the big NYE celebration. As long as I’m with the one I love, it’s a-ok by me.
(This sums up my feelings perfectly, with added sass: http://www.someecards.com/card/sorry-youre-finally)
Happy New Year!
HA HA!!! I remember that cooler! I think it surfaced at a few parties and maybe the beach before you returned it. Love your writing Angie! I’m so thrilled you are following your heart and doing what you are clearly meant to do. I miss you very much!
Oh, sweet girl, how I remember that night and morning also! Great memories! But, like you, I’m content to be snug as a bug at home watching Missouri football with Pat and the events of 2009 unfold on the tv. I am blessed and loved and that’s all that really matters to me at this point in time. My wish for 2010 is that my heart is completely filled with joy, laughter and contentment for all the things that only the good Lord can bring~! I love you baby girl! HAPPY NEW YEAR~~!!
Great post! Hope you have a fantastic year!
10 years ago I was ringing in Y2K with all of my best college friends in Auburn, AL. We were all waiting for everything to fall apart and then…nothing happened. I remember it all being a bit anti-climatic.
10 years later, I’ve been married to my love for seven years. We’ve survived more than I ever dreamed we could endure. I’ve learned what it means to truly have faith and I believe that’s the greatest gift I could have ever received. I’m now the Mommy to a beautiful angel in Heaven, the cutest 2 year old I know and a tiny baby that we’ll meet sometime in June. As I’ve said before, I would never choose this journey, but I wouldn’t change a bit of it either.
Happy New Year my friend!
Isn’t it funny how our lives and priorities change over time? The past ten years have certainly seen me looking for and enjoying a much simpler lifestyle. In fact, simplicity is one of my goals for 2010.
I hope you and your family have a wonderful year ahead!
I appreciate hearing everyone’s reflections and perspectives on New Year’s of past and those that are yet to come. Thanks for reading and commenting!